The rising waters of Lake Albert at the beginning of 2024 pose a real challenge for the populations living in the territories of Irumu, Djugu and Mahagi, in Ituri province. The consequences of this natural event are already being felt significantly, impacting both the socio-economic aspect and the traditional fishing activity which constitutes an essential part of local life.
More than a hundred coastal fishing camps have been affected by this rising waters, a phenomenon which affects not only the inhabitants but also the revenues of the Congolese State. Robert Ndjalonga, coordinator of civil protection in Ituri, underlines the urgency of an adequate response from the authorities and humanitarian partners to mitigate the impacts of this environmental crisis.
In the Joo region, located in the Bahema Nord chiefdom in Djugu, commercial activity is seriously disrupted, with a large part of the territory submerged by water up to 90%. Faced with this alarming situation, the release of risk areas on the coast appears to be a necessary measure to prevent further damage and losses.
The locality of Kasenyi, in the Irumu territory, is also severely affected by this rising waters, with disastrous consequences for its inhabitants. The need for rapid and coordinated action is felt more than ever, in order to come to the aid of the disaster-stricken populations and limit material and human damage.
The international community and national institutions must combine their efforts to provide effective assistance to the victims of this natural disaster. The environmental emergency looming in the Ituri province highlights the fragility of lake ecosystems and the vulnerability of the populations who depend on them. It is imperative to act quickly to prevent new crises and protect communities affected by the vagaries of nature.